The U.S. women’s national team has reclaimed the top spot in the latest FIFA rankings after a remarkable Olympic run that ended a 12-year gold medal drought. This achievement comes after a period of struggle for the team, dropping to third place following an early exit at the 2023 World Cup and further slipping to fourth and then fifth place in subsequent rankings.
Prior to last summer, the USWNT had consistently held a top-two position since the establishment of the FIFA rankings system for women’s soccer in 2003. Their resurgence to the top spot is a significant morale boost as they navigate the Emma Hayes era.
Spain, which briefly held the No. 1 ranking after winning the World Cup, has now dropped to third place after a disappointing performance at the Olympics. England has climbed to second place despite not participating in the Olympics and experiencing varied results in UEFA Euro 2025 qualifying.
France, on the other hand, saw a significant drop in the rankings after their loss to Brazil in the Olympic quarterfinals, falling to tenth place from their previous second-place position heading into the Games.
Overall, the USWNT’s return to the top spot marks a turning point for the team as they aim to maintain their position and build on their recent success.